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Practical guides for living in Japan β visa, housing, healthcare, and more.
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Japan Visa vs. Status of Residence: The Complete Map (2026)
Visa and Status of Residence are separate systems in Japan. This guide maps the full picture β work, study, and short-stay routes β with official sources and step-by-step entry points.
Japan Fee Changes in 2026 β Departure Tax, Visa, Residence, and Passport Fees Explained
Japan's departure tax triples to Β₯3,000 and passport fees drop from July 2026. Visa and residence fee hikes are proposed but not finalized. A clear breakdown of what is confirmed, what is pending, and who is affected.
Tourists Can No Longer Take the JLPT in Japan from 2026 β What Changed and What to Do
From 2026, the JLPT in Japan requires a residence card. Tourists and short-term visitors are no longer eligible. Here is what changed, why, and how to find an overseas test site.
Bicycle Transfer and Registration: My Real Experience with Inconsistent Guidance
Real experience of bicycle registration transfer (cancellation β re-registration) in Japan. Koban couldn't handle it, but a bicycle shop accommodated us. Re-registration completed about a week later (Β₯700). Includes questions to confirm beforehand.
New to Japan? Start with these essentials
If you are just getting started, focus on visa, paperwork, and daily-life basics first.